Psychiatrists in Farmingdale, NY
![Photo of Chi Truong-Leisner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74f6f31a-4c0a-4bed-81ee-f4917a36ea9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chi Truong-Leisner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmingdale, NY 11735 (Online Only)
There is no such thing as an ideal client. All of my clients are unique and inspirational in their own way. My focus is emphasized on your present symptoms and not the label that comes with those symptoms. The ultimate goal for my patients is to foster confidence and independence in their lives. If you don't leave our sessions with a sense of comfort and hope, I am not doing my duty to you.
There is no such thing as an ideal client. All of my clients are unique and inspirational in their own way. My focus is emphasized on your present symptoms and not the label that comes with those symptoms. The ultimate goal for my patients is to foster confidence and independence in their lives. If you don't leave our sessions with a sense of comfort and hope, I am not doing my duty to you.
![Photo of Elston L Volkerts, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a748ce39-2c92-4ae8-85e2-31e9c1fc5616/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elston L Volkerts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Farmingdale, NY 11735 (Online Only)
I'm here to help you be the best version of yourself.
I'm here to help you be the best version of yourself.
![Photo of Shenique Ranger-Hutchinson, MSN , PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ced1a83-379a-4a55-a9e0-0460eb4633da/1/320x400.png)
Shenique Ranger-Hutchinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmingdale, NY 11735 (Online Only)
Mental Health is just as important as physical health.The Nurse Practitioner at Encrypted Mind LLC is skilled at treating a wide variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression , stress management , grief ,anger management , OCD , bipolar, PTSD and childhood ADHD. I have availablility after working hrs and on Sunday. I am available to patients who providers are on vacation and may not be available after working hours. To view my availabilities and schedule an appt , please log onto Headway.Co
Mental Health is just as important as physical health.The Nurse Practitioner at Encrypted Mind LLC is skilled at treating a wide variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression , stress management , grief ,anger management , OCD , bipolar, PTSD and childhood ADHD. I have availablility after working hrs and on Sunday. I am available to patients who providers are on vacation and may not be available after working hours. To view my availabilities and schedule an appt , please log onto Headway.Co
![Photo of Kate Lindstadt - Hope & Resilience, LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e4424db-4b7b-43cf-992a-13841f7c92fb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hope & Resilience, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Farmingdale, NY 11735
I see patients of all ages. I have special training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I see patients of all ages. I have special training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Sakina Hayden - Peaceful Mind Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PC, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92331bc-932c-4031-b542-b8bea91046fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Peaceful Mind Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Farmingdale, NY 11735
I am a bilingual Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychopharmacology and my treatment philosophy centers on caring for the whole person as well as integrating holistic interventions when possible. I treat children, adolescents and adults across the life span. I offer virtual and in-person sessions. Please note that I do not sub-specialize in addictions.
I am a bilingual Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in psychopharmacology and my treatment philosophy centers on caring for the whole person as well as integrating holistic interventions when possible. I treat children, adolescents and adults across the life span. I offer virtual and in-person sessions. Please note that I do not sub-specialize in addictions.
![Photo of Vanessa Barisano, PMHNP-, BC MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef07e0a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Barisano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Farmingdale, NY 11735
My vision is for all women and mothers to feel worthy of mental health treatment without fear or judgement. Women have unique needs based on what stage of life they are in. Whether you are preconception, pregnant, postpartum or "empty nesting", I have the expertise to manage your needs. My passion is helping women navigate through all their transitions & difficulties with compassion and empathy!
My vision is for all women and mothers to feel worthy of mental health treatment without fear or judgement. Women have unique needs based on what stage of life they are in. Whether you are preconception, pregnant, postpartum or "empty nesting", I have the expertise to manage your needs. My passion is helping women navigate through all their transitions & difficulties with compassion and empathy!
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Tina Wu, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b85362a-a4d9-4ba3-ae0a-4dc6ac5defc7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD through medication management and psychotherapy. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Internal Family System (IFS), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD through medication management and psychotherapy. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Internal Family System (IFS), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
![Photo of Gundu Anupama Reddy - Long Island Psychiatrist Online and Office visits, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17a1ca48-d616-4b17-adc3-7405fcb08e1a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Long Island Psychiatrist Online and Office visits
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare). I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems dysphoria or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare). I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems dysphoria or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
![Photo of Viji Meledath - VJM NP Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e67824e9-96bb-4cd5-9022-65ead229674b/1/320x400.jpeg)
VJM NP Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westbury, NY 11590 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been taking care of patients for the last 12 plus years. I have earned a master's degree in Nursing with Summa Cum Laude from Stonybrook University, specializing in psychiatry across the life span. I have experience in medication management treatment for patients from different backgrounds and all ages ranging from age 8 to 80 and above.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have been taking care of patients for the last 12 plus years. I have earned a master's degree in Nursing with Summa Cum Laude from Stonybrook University, specializing in psychiatry across the life span. I have experience in medication management treatment for patients from different backgrounds and all ages ranging from age 8 to 80 and above.
![Photo of Marsha Desrosiers, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc2d04b7-8676-4ca7-b8fc-ca7572c72651/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marsha Desrosiers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
East Meadow, NY 11554 (Online Only)
I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. My passion for psychiatry stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of mental well-being as a cornerstone of overall health. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients, each with unique needs and challenges, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each individual. I specialize in the treatment of various mental health concerns. My approach is holistic to support my patients in achieving their mental health goals. I provide telehealth services to allow for flexibility.
I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. My passion for psychiatry stems from a deep-seated belief in the importance of mental well-being as a cornerstone of overall health. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients, each with unique needs and challenges, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to each individual. I specialize in the treatment of various mental health concerns. My approach is holistic to support my patients in achieving their mental health goals. I provide telehealth services to allow for flexibility.
![Photo of Vivette Fletcher-Harriott - PMHNP, INC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a89238-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed, board certified advance family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individuals, 6 years and older. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
I am a licensed, board certified advance family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individuals, 6 years and older. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
![Photo of Seda Angelina Port - Zen Integrative Care, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ea1e713-7789-4821-9308-5f9ec9abd87b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zen Integrative Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Carle Place, NY 11514 (Online Only)
As a double board-certified practitioner in medicine and psychiatry, I am acutely aware of the impact of mental health on overall wellbeing. I leverage my background in critical care, preventative care, surgery and psychiatry to provide an evidence-based and results-oriented holistic approach catered to each individual. I combine medication management sessions with individual psychotherapy to achieve optimal results in a culturally sensitive and emotionally safe space for the client. My treatment plans are developed in conjunction with the client to provide focused care aimed at encouraging personal growth and development.
As a double board-certified practitioner in medicine and psychiatry, I am acutely aware of the impact of mental health on overall wellbeing. I leverage my background in critical care, preventative care, surgery and psychiatry to provide an evidence-based and results-oriented holistic approach catered to each individual. I combine medication management sessions with individual psychotherapy to achieve optimal results in a culturally sensitive and emotionally safe space for the client. My treatment plans are developed in conjunction with the client to provide focused care aimed at encouraging personal growth and development.
![Photo of Dr. Joette Hoffman - Water Gap Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76b5752c-28ab-4498-8a3c-cc9fdd1c5e3d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Water Gap Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Amityville, NY 11701
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
![Photo of Dr. Angela Victoriano Resurreccion, DNP, PMHNPBC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19cd73f4-addb-4678-adce-f2ee736be3e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angela Victoriano Resurreccion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Massapequa, NY 11758 (Online Only)
I am deeply passionate about providing comprehensive and high quality of care to individuals struggling with mental health concerns. With a vast background in psychiatry, my goal is to achieve one’s optimal mental health wellness and quality of life.
I am deeply passionate about providing comprehensive and high quality of care to individuals struggling with mental health concerns. With a vast background in psychiatry, my goal is to achieve one’s optimal mental health wellness and quality of life.
![Photo of Daphne Wang, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10b1ae5a-6061-4513-91b8-7029d6589a71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Dr. Daphne Wang. I believe in a warm, collaborative approach, where I spend time getting to know and truly understand my patients and together with my clinical expertise, provide expertly tailored treatments. My training allows me to understand a person from their developmental beginnings and how they are shaped by biological, psychological and sociological aspects of their lives. I am also fluent in Mandarin and have extensive experience working with Chinese speaking patients and recognize the importance of providing culturally sensitive care.
Hello, I am Dr. Daphne Wang. I believe in a warm, collaborative approach, where I spend time getting to know and truly understand my patients and together with my clinical expertise, provide expertly tailored treatments. My training allows me to understand a person from their developmental beginnings and how they are shaped by biological, psychological and sociological aspects of their lives. I am also fluent in Mandarin and have extensive experience working with Chinese speaking patients and recognize the importance of providing culturally sensitive care.
![Photo of Nicola Rivers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79b41439-f492-4b28-aff3-c6c775996b37/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new clients. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals of all ages. With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve optimal mental well-being.
Currently accepting new clients. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals of all ages. With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve optimal mental well-being.
![Photo of Erika Balfour, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04e40bd7-5f09-49b1-acba-d765ecbdeea0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Balfour is a Yale University graduate and is triple board certified. At Discreet Medical, PC, we offer compassionate mental health services, using evidence based medicine, science, and collaborative care to provide our patients with tools to help them accomplish their goals. We specialize in treating patients suffering from mental conditions who may also be afflicted with concomitant medical conditions, such as cancer, autoimmune diseases or inflammatory diseases. We serve driven professionals to help support their goals and endeavors.
Dr. Balfour is a Yale University graduate and is triple board certified. At Discreet Medical, PC, we offer compassionate mental health services, using evidence based medicine, science, and collaborative care to provide our patients with tools to help them accomplish their goals. We specialize in treating patients suffering from mental conditions who may also be afflicted with concomitant medical conditions, such as cancer, autoimmune diseases or inflammatory diseases. We serve driven professionals to help support their goals and endeavors.
![Photo of Anne Marie Peters - Humanistic Family Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine, BSN, MSN, NPP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a9cf5c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Humanistic Family Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, NPP, BC
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566
Humanistic Family Psychiatry & Addiction Treatment is a Sole Psychiatric/Addiction Treatment Practice located on the South Shore of Long Island. As a practitioner, I provide an integrative humanistic approach caring for children, adolescent, adults suffering from mental health issues as well as provide addiction treatment to those who suffer from substance abuse disorders. I treat each individual according to the whole person not just a diagnosis. I address persons mind, body and spirit. My mission is to return a person to their optimal health & assist one to live a happy, healthier & fulfilled life. Holistic approach used for treatment as well.
Humanistic Family Psychiatry & Addiction Treatment is a Sole Psychiatric/Addiction Treatment Practice located on the South Shore of Long Island. As a practitioner, I provide an integrative humanistic approach caring for children, adolescent, adults suffering from mental health issues as well as provide addiction treatment to those who suffer from substance abuse disorders. I treat each individual according to the whole person not just a diagnosis. I address persons mind, body and spirit. My mission is to return a person to their optimal health & assist one to live a happy, healthier & fulfilled life. Holistic approach used for treatment as well.
![Photo of Grace Manglet - Telepsychiatry, MS, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ba03ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, DNP
Verified Verified
Bethpage, NY 11714 (Online Only)
Hello! This is Grace Manglet, DNP. I am a board Certified Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I see clients via a secure Telepsychiatry platform. I use a holistic approach to Psychiatric and Mental Health issues, and focus on helping my clients create and maintain meaningful changes in their lives. Integration of mindfulness, meditation, exercise and healthy nutrition are essential components of my practice.
Hello! This is Grace Manglet, DNP. I am a board Certified Psychiatry and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive privileges. I see clients via a secure Telepsychiatry platform. I use a holistic approach to Psychiatric and Mental Health issues, and focus on helping my clients create and maintain meaningful changes in their lives. Integration of mindfulness, meditation, exercise and healthy nutrition are essential components of my practice.
![Photo of Scott Krakower, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/147d44f5-3eba-4a36-b1a9-4c7ded529d9b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Krakower is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and formerly served as Unit Chief of Psychiatry at Northwell Health / Zucker Hillside Hospital. He is internationally recognized for his work with patients suffering from trauma, anxiety, video gaming, head injuries, coronavirus recovery, and addiction. He has provided expert opinion for hundreds of studies worldwide. He is recognized as a top physician by SuperDoctors and was a group recipient of the the Catchers in the Rye Humanitarian Award.
Dr. Krakower is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and formerly served as Unit Chief of Psychiatry at Northwell Health / Zucker Hillside Hospital. He is internationally recognized for his work with patients suffering from trauma, anxiety, video gaming, head injuries, coronavirus recovery, and addiction. He has provided expert opinion for hundreds of studies worldwide. He is recognized as a top physician by SuperDoctors and was a group recipient of the the Catchers in the Rye Humanitarian Award.
See more therapy options for Farmingdale
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Farmingdale, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Farmingdale, NY who prioritize treating:
67% | Depression |
67% | Anxiety |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
67% | Sleep or Insomnia |
67% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Farmingdale, NY see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Farmingdale?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.